Stalybridge Celtic Ladies Football Club can now announce the management team and first-team squad for our first season in the Cheshire Women's Championship Division Two.

The team's first league game is on Sunday September 8 against Whitchurch Alport Ladies Football Club. Ryan Bamford and Celtic club secretary Andrew Betts will join forces as joint-managers of the team.

Ryan has previously coached in Vietnam and is keen to get stuck in, bringing some new ideas to the side. He said: "I am really happy to be part of Celtic's first women's team. "I think it's a great opportunity for the club as women's football has been growing in popularity in recent years.

"Both myself and Bettsy know it'll be tough to get a new team prepared to face some sides that have been together for years, but I've already been told the ladies get on really well and are eager to get going.

"So with a bit of work, I believe we can have a successful season starting with a win on Sunday away in Shropshire."

Andrew, who is no stranger to Celtic said he couldn't wait to get started: "It's good to have another team come under the Stalybridge Celtic Wing, we've looked to branch out to all areas this summer with the ladies side being one of them.

"They are a great set of players that are willing to learn and are looking forward to the season.

"We're not expecting miracles, they've been thrown in at the deep end as they've had a short pre-season with us starting up late, so it's a big ask but hopefully they go out and enjoy Sunday."

Our first-team squad consists of:
Becci Anderson,
Melissa Armstrong,
Jennifer Buckley,

Rebecca Fox,
Emily Gannon,
Laura Handley,

Stacie Harrison,

Kirsten Kirby,
Leanne Mansifeld,
Stacey Oakley,
Samantha Shepherd,
Melanie Southern,
Lucy Tootill,
Holly Wain and
Kerisia Webb.

Celtic CEO Wendy Mackie said she would do everything she could to support the team: "The establishment of a Stalybridge Celtic women's team is one of the most welcome developments at the club for many years.

"I welcome the women's team to Bower Fold. The increased involvement of women at the club both on and off the field can only bring a wealth of fresh ideas and energy at a time when the club most needs new initiatives.

"As CEO, I will do everything I can to ensure the success of this great development and to give the women's team maximum support."

Supporters will be able to follow Celtic Ladies progress through the club website and by following @StalyCelticLFC on Twitter. Updates will also be provided in the club's home programmes.